Summer literacy

Ken Johnston

Keeping kids reading in the summer is a real challenge.
Rainy River Public Library went the extra mile to keep kids doing just that this past summer by hosting a summer reading program that included all kinds of fun over and above reading.
Librarian Penny Shumaker and summer student Corissa Hanson hosted a drop -in program at the library. Every time a child brought a book back they would ask them about the story and then allow them to enter a draw for fun prizes.
The staff of the library also invited the kids to do crafts related to some of the stories they were reading throughout the summer. “The kids made broom sticks, magic wands and designed dragons,” said Shumaker who noted that fantasy is really big with kids this summer.
The library also was home to a castle built by Hanson and Shumaker. It was featured on the library’s award winning float at the Rainy River Centennial parade. Both said that the kids seem to really enjoy the extra fun they generated around reading this summer.
When asked if she felt it was a successful program Shumaker said, “It is hard to gauge.” But if the wrap up party last week was any indicator it was a huge success.
Expecting about 15 kids to attend, nearly double that number showed up; most of them in costume!
There were Tiggers, a Ninja Turtle, a One Eyed Purple People Eater, Harry Potter, Knights in shining armor and many more.
Early birds made dragon stick puppets. That was followed by games, story time and then a special visitor. Shrek (a.k.a.) Tom Shumaker, arrived to sing some songs. He was a huge hit.
All in all it is safe to say the local kids really enjoyed reading this past summer, thanks to the efforts by the RR Library staff.